Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Operating Instructions Manual page 166

164
Driving and parking
Driving tips
The maximum permissible speed for car/trailer
combinations depends on the type of trailer.
Before driving, consult the trailer's vehicle papers
to see the maximum permissible speed for your
trailer.
Your vehicle will act differently with a trailer rela‐
tive to without a trailer, and will consume more
fuel. In the case of a long and steep descent, you
must select shift range 3, 2 or 1 in good time.
%
This also applies if the cruise control or the
speed limiter is switched on.
You thereby make use of the braking effect of the
engine and do not have to brake as often to con‐
trol the speed. This relieves the load on the brake
system and prevents the brakes from overheating
and wearing too quickly. If you have to apply the
brakes as well, do not keep your foot on the
brake pedal. Instead, press it intermittently.
Driving tips
If the trailer sways, remember the following
points:
Do not accelerate under any circumstances.
R
Do not countersteer.
R
If necessary, apply the brakes.
R
%
You can prevent the trailer from swaying and
swerving by retrofitting stabiliser bars or
trailer stability programs. You can obtain
information from your authorised Sprinter
dealer.
Keep a larger distance than when driving
R
without a trailer.
Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake gen‐
R
tly first of all so that the trailer closes up
behind your vehicle. Then, increase the brak‐
ing force quickly.
The values given for gradient-climbing capa‐
R
bilities from a standstill refer to sea level.
When driving in mountainous areas, note that
the engine power, and therefore its gradient-
climbing capability, decrease with increasing
altitude.
Attaching the ball coupling
& WARNING Danger of accident‑ and injury
due to incorrectly installed and secured
ball coupling
If the ball coupling has not engaged, it can
become detached during driving and endan‐
ger other road users.
Engage the ball coupling as described
#
and ensure that it is securely installed.
& WARNING Danger of accident due to
non-engaged ball coupling
If the ball coupling has not engaged, the
trailer can become detached.
Always engage the ball coupling as
#
described and ensure that it is securely
installed.
Use the parking brake to secure the vehicle
#
against rolling away.
Pull safety spring 1
#
upwards in the direction of the arrow, push it
backwards and hold it in this position.
of ball coupling 3